<h1>Global markets mixed as US stocks hit records amid trade policy uncertainty and inflation concerns</h1> World shares opened mixed following US stocks reaching all-time highs after recovering from trade policy disruptions. The administration's trade policies and tariff threats continue affecting markets, though a decision to cancel technology firm taxes helped resume trade talks. US futures advanced while European markets declined. Asian markets showed mixed results with gains in Tokyo and Shanghai but losses in Hong Kong and Taiwan. Factory activity improved slightly despite ongoing manufacturing contraction. Inflation remains above the central bank's target at 2.3 percent, with officials monitoring tariff impacts. Rate cuts are expected before year-end despite inflation concerns.